2019 Beloki Crianza, Rioja

Savory cherries, plums, bark, cinnamon and mushrooms on the nose. Medium-bodied with round and tight tannins that add some grip to the fluid palate. Vivid finish. Drink now.

91 points jamessuckling.com

Rioja is named after the river rio Oja, a tributary to the Ebro river. Earliest evidence of viticulture dates back to 873, though there is strong belief that the first vines were planted during the Roman era. Soils are generally clay rich in iron and chalk, but some areas are prominent alluvial and others sandstone. The climate is warm continental having long cold winters and short hot summers with big temperature variation between day and night. The cold nights slow down the maturation and prolongs the ripening cycle of the grapes, giving more time to develop aroma complexity as well as retaining high natural acidity.

Clean and bright, ruby red color. High intensity, aromas of ripe fruits. Notes of tobacco, red berries combined with vanilla and spices. With a ripe fruit background. Smooth tannins with good volume. Perfect with roasted meats or in sauce, sausages and ham.